MEMS Mirror 3D Scanner for In Vivo Orthodontic Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current three-dimensional scanning technologies for objects, particularly in orthodontics, are inefficient and labor-intensive, requiring precise positioning and substantial operator input, and are unsuitable for in vivo scanning or scanning of objects with varying surface topography.
Innovation Solution
A high-speed scanning system utilizing a MEMS mirror oscillating at high frequency, coupled with a high-speed transceiver and laser-based range finding technology, allowing for precise three-dimensional surface information capture without requiring precise scanner-object alignment or extensive operator input, enabling in vivo scanning and scanning of objects with complex topographies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If traditional scanning systems are used for three-dimensional surface mapping, then measurement capability is achieved, but scanning speed is slow and acquisition time is long
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a resonant MEMS mirror that oscillates periodically at high frequency (e.g., 8 kHz) to scan the laser beam across the object surface. This periodic oscillation enables rapid sequential measurement of multiple points, transforming the slow sequential scanning of traditional systems into a high-speed periodic scanning process that captures three-dimensional surface information much faster
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuous laser emission and continuous mirror oscillation during the scanning process, ensuring that measurement action is uninterrupted. The laser beam continuously sweeps across the surface following the mirror's oscillation, and the detector continuously receives reflected light signals, eliminating idle time between measurements and maximizing the useful measurement action throughout the acquisition period
2Measurement precision
If traditional scanning systems are used, then surface information is captured, but positioning precision requirements are high and alignment is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-calibration by automatically determining the relationship between the laser beam direction and detector position through the known mirror oscillation characteristics. The computer controls the mirror oscillation and simultaneously tracks the beam position, allowing the system to self-adjust and eliminate the need for manual alignment between the laser source, mirror, and detector, thereby simplifying operation while maintaining precision
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback control where the computer monitors the mirror oscillation position and adjusts the laser beam direction or detector positioning based on real-time measurements. This closed-loop feedback ensures that even if minor misalignments occur, the system automatically compensates to maintain measurement precision without requiring high initial alignment accuracy
3Productivity
If high-speed scanning is implemented, then acquisition speed improves, but measurement precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the oscillation frequency parameter of the MEMS mirror to a high resonant frequency (e.g., 8 kHz), which simultaneously achieves high scanning speed and maintains measurement precision. The high frequency allows many measurement points to be captured per second while the short measurement interval at each point minimizes motion blur and maintains accuracy, a combination not achievable with traditional low-frequency scanning systems
4Adaptability or versatility
If complex surface topography is scanned, then comprehensive surface information is obtained, but scanning system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a single MEMS mirror-based scanning mechanism that can universally scan any three-dimensional surface topology without requiring mechanical adjustment or reconfiguration. The resonant mirror naturally adapts its oscillation pattern to scan complex surfaces, and the computer-controlled system automatically adjusts measurement parameters for different surface types, eliminating the need for multiple specialized scanning mechanisms for different surface geometries
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system achieves high-precision, rapid acquisition of three-dimensional information with minimal human intervention, capable of scanning complex surfaces and moving objects, offering significant improvements in resolution, acquisition speed, and signal-to-noise ratio compared to existing technologies.
Implementation Method 1
an oscillating MEMS mirror for reflecting an emitted light beam towards a surface of an object
Implementation Method 2
the surface of the object reflects the emitted light beam
Implementation Method 3
a high-speed transceiver for measuring a round trip elapsed time of the emitted light beam
Data Source
AI summary
A scanning system is disclosed including a hand-held scanning device for capturing three-dimensional information of an object. The scanner system includes a high-speed transceiver having a high-speed laser light source, a high frequency MEMS oscillating scanning mirror and software for frame registration. Laser based range finding technique is used to map the scanned object. MEMS oscillating at high speed enables rapid and accurate scanning of an object. The scanning can be performed without knowledge or even precise control of the position of the object relative to the scanner. Random movement of the object during scanning is also possible. The scanner can be used for a variety of purposes, including medical and industrial purposes. The illustrated embodiment is in-vivo scanning of human teeth for purposes of orthodontic treatment planning and diagnosis. Several benefits from the scanner are possible: much higher resolution of the scanned object, improved acquisition speed of the three-dimensional information of the surface of the object to be mapped, and the improvement in virtual image clarity.